Pathogenesis of atherosclerosis

Abstract

There is abundant evidence that changes in diet and various types of vessel wall injury can independently induce the growth of arterial lesions in experimental animals. These lesions closely resemble those found in humans with atherosclerosis. Whether endothelial injury or accumulation of lipoprotein in the arterial intima is the initial event, the progression of the disease is characterized by changes in the neointima that favor the deposition of lipid. The metabolism of proteoglycans may be especially important in this process; this is relevant to diabetes because changes in proteoglycan metabolism are associated with this disease. Insulin and growth hormone may favor the proliferation of smooth muscle cells in the arteries of diabetic patients. Many agents, which are potentially injurious to the endothelium, accentuate the response of the vessel wall to injury. Modifications of the thrombotic process, such as increased production of thromboxane by platelets, decreased production of prostacyclin by the endothelium, and increased production of von Willebrand factor further enhance the thrombotic process and may be important in the initiation and subsequent progression of atherosclerosis in diabetics. Alterations in lipoprotein metabolism may also facilitate the development of endothelial injury.